The LBJ high school community came together Wednesday night November 12, 2014 to hold a candlelight vigil for student and football player Jermaine Dillard, who was killed over the weekend when he was struck by a car. Dillard was new to the school after moving from Washington state and quickly found friends as they came together to pay a solemn tribute. The LBJ team plays this weekend in the first round of the playoffs. Dillard was struck by a car and killed while trying to cross U.S. 183 near the school to walk his sister home from work over the weekend, because he was worried about her safety.

The east Austin community gathered for a vigil for Jermaine Dillard, as he was remembered in photos and words.

Students light candles, sing songs and pray for the gentle giant whom everyone befriended quickly even though this was his first year on campus.

LBJ opens the playoffs against Vista Ridge carrying a heavy burden for their fallen teammate, but managed an inspired game as they won.

LBJ’s Zae Giles stiff arms Vista Ridge’s Parker Stallings on a long run during first quarter action. Vista Ridge played host to LBJ in a bi-district playoff game at John Gupton Stadium in Cedar Park, TX.

LBJ’s Avery Jackson runs away from a slew of Vista Ridge defenders for a touchdown run during first quarter action and raises his arms skyward in a tribute to his teammate.

Vista Ridge’s Delonte Singleton has no where to run as he is wrapped up a pack of LBJ defenders during first quarter action. The Jaguars played inspired defense as they overcame a deficit to secure their first playoff victory in 12 years.

LBJ’s Detrick Heard celebrate the Jaguars victory while wearing the jersey number of his fallen teammate Jermaine Dillard. Vista Ridge played host to LBJ in a bi-district playoff game at John Gupton Stadium in Cedar Park Saturday afternoon November 15, 2014 with LBJ pulling off the upset 26-21 in memory of their lost teammate Jermaine Dillard, who was killed last weekend by a car. Their playoff continued for two more game before finally losing in the quarterfinals.

LBJ Jaguars head coach Andrew Jackson becomes emotional with player Detrick Heard after their improbable victory. Heard wore the jersey of Dillard in a tribute to his deceased teammate.

LBJ Jaguars head coach Andrew Jackson accepts a check for the family of deceased player Jermaine Dillard given to him by Vista Ridge player Cade Smarr after the game. The other team raised funds for the family.

LBJ Jaguars celebrate their improbable victory by celebrating on the field.

LBJ Jaguars head coach Andrew Jackson is overcome by emotion as he celebrates their improbable victory with his players.

LBJ’s Charles Scott holds dog tags that were given to the team in honor of their fallen teammate Jermaine Dillard.